THE NEWS FREEDOM
CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY 20
On the eve of the farmers’ ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, the Punjab and Haryana High Court observed on Tuesday that the use of tractor trolleys on highways is prohibited under the Motor Vehicles Act. The High Court emphasized the farmers’ right to protest while emphasizing the necessity of adhering to reasonable restrictions.
During the proceedings, the High Court reiterated to the farmers the importance of adhering to “constitutional duties” alongside exercising their fundamental rights. Addressing the practical aspect of their journey from Amritsar to Delhi on trolleys, the court emphasized the need to balance rights with responsibilities. The High Court directed the Punjab government to ensure that large gatherings are avoided and requested the Central government to submit a detailed affidavit outlining the outcomes of meetings with the protesting farmers. Subsequently, the High Court adjourned the hearing until the following week.
Earlier, on February 19, farmer unions rejected the Centre’s proposal to procure pulses, maize, and cotton at MSP through cooperative societies for an unrestricted period of five years. In response, they declared their intent to persist with their protest and commence the ‘Delhi Chalo’ movement at 11 am on February 21.